MacAdam says Connaughton's ability to discuss the defeat to media soon after was admirable, and not out of the runner's character.

Connaughton apologized for the misstep.

But MacAdam says the rules are fair, even though they're much tougher than they used to be just a few years ago.

In the past a few steps across a running lane was overlooked.

Now that’s not the case, but MacAdam says the updated rules are there for a reason.

"The closer to the line you run, the shorter distance you run. They decide that this is the line, if you step on it, you're out," MacAdam said. "Kind of like in a basketball game or in a game of tennis, we're always looking at line violations, and that's the way it is now."

MacAdam says it's a good thing the team is young, because they hopefully will get another chance at a medal during the next Olympics.